Jalapeno Poppers with Herb Cream Cheese

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Herb Cream Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 large jalapenos, halved and seeded; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs

Highlighted under: Classic Baking Collection

I love making Jalapeno Poppers with Herb Cream Cheese for gatherings. The spicy kick of jalapenos combined with the creamy, herb-infused filling creates a mouthwatering appetizer that always disappears quickly. Each popper is crispy on the outside and bursting with flavor on the inside. Whether it's game day or a casual get-together, these poppers add a fun and delicious element to the spread. Trust me, once you try them, you'll want to keep this recipe close at hand for all your upcoming events.

Created by

Nola Patterson

Last updated on 2026-01-13T02:07:35.119Z

When I first made Jalapeno Poppers, I wanted something that balanced the heat with a creamy, flavorful surprise inside. After experimenting a bit, I found that adding herbs like chives and parsley elevated the cream cheese filling to a whole new level. The contrast between the crispy breadcrumb coating and the smooth filling is something I look forward to every time.

I also discovered that pre-baking the jalapenos before stuffing them minimizes the cooking time and ensures they retain a pleasant crunch. These poppers are sure to become a staple at any gathering, as everyone loves the delicious interplay of spice and creaminess!

        Why You'll Love These Jalapeno Poppers
        Spicy jalapenos paired with creamy herb cheese
Crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the filling
Perfect as an appetizer or game day snack

      

Perfecting Your Jalapeno Poppers

The key to achieving perfectly cooked jalapeno poppers lies in selecting the right jalapenos. Look for larger peppers that are firm and bright green for the best flavor and texture. When halving the jalapenos, make sure to remove all the seeds and membranes to control the heat level; this allows for a balanced bite where the cream cheese filling shines through without being overwhelmed by spice.

For the filling, using room-temperature cream cheese ensures a smooth blend with the other ingredients. When mixing, combine the cheeses with herbs and spices until the mixture is glossy and well-combined. This creamy filling not only imparts flavor but also adds moisture, keeping the poppers from drying out during baking.

Baking Tips for Crispy Poppers

Baking these poppers at 375°F (190°C) allows them to cook evenly and helps the breadcrumbs achieve a nice golden color. Keep a close eye on them around the 15-minute mark; you want them to be tender yet maintain their structure. The tops should be golden brown, indicating that the breadcrumbs are crispy. If you prefer extra crunch, consider broiling for the last 2-3 minutes.

To ensure even cooking, arrange the poppers with space between them on the baking sheet, which allows air to circulate. Using parchment paper can also prevent sticking and promote even browning. If you have leftover filling, consider using it as a spread for crackers, adding versatility to your appetizer spread.

Serving and Storing Tips

These jalapeno poppers are perfect for serving warm, straight out of the oven. I recommend garnishing them with a sprinkle of extra herbs or a drizzle of ranch dressing for added flavor. For a fresh twist, serve with a side of salsa or guacamole to balance the heat. They make an excellent snack during game day or can be a fun addition to a potluck.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to restore some of their original crispness. For longer-term storage, these poppers freeze beautifully uncooked. Just assemble and freeze before baking, and they can be baked straight from the freezer—just add about 5-10 additional minutes to the baking time!

Ingredients

For the Poppers

12 large jalapenos, halved and seeded
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Place them cut side up on a baking sheet.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, chives, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well blended.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, filling them generously.

Coat and Bake

Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the stuffed jalapenos. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the jalapenos are tender and the tops are golden brown.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, leave some seeds in the jalapenos or add diced cooked bacon to the filling.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to spice up the poppers, consider swapping the cream cheese for a flavored version like garlic or herb cream cheese for an extra layer of taste. Additionally, using smoked gouda instead of cheddar can add depth to the flavor profile. For a dairy-free variation, cream cheese made from cashews or almond milk can work well, just make sure to adjust the seasoning to boost flavor.

You can modify the herbs used in the filling based on what you have on hand. Fresh cilantro or dill can provide a different taste dynamic. If herbs aren’t available, a dash of Italian seasoning can also work nicely, ensuring the filling remains flavorful without compromising the spirit of the dish.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your poppers are coming out soggy, it may be due to excess moisture in the jalapenos or not drying them after washing. Before preparing the filling, pat the halved jalapenos dry with a paper towel. Additionally, make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet, as this can trap steam and lead to a less desirable texture.

In case the filling is too thick and difficult to spoon into the jalapenos, a quick mix with a little sour cream or milk can help loosen it up. Conversely, if the filling is too runny, adding a bit more cream cheese or some breadcrumbs can help create a better consistency for stuffing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them up to the baking stage and keep them refrigerated for a few hours before baking.

→ What if I don't like spicy food?

You can use mini sweet peppers instead of jalapenos for a milder option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Leftover poppers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I freeze these jalapeno poppers?

Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just make sure to wrap them tightly and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.